Abstract: A method for coupling an ultrasonic probe to a test specimen, whereby a cushion of fluid is formed between the two bodies to facilitate the coupling. In order to optimize the coupling, reduce the quantity of coupling fluid as well as prevent a drain off of the coupling fluid, a vacuum is produced during the attachment of the probe to the test specimen at the end of the probe facing the surface of the test specimen. Coupling fluid is drawn by the vacuum into the gap between the probe and the specimen to form a fluid cushion. The device for coupling the probe to the test specimen is equipped with a guiding and retaining housing for the probe through which the fluid may be supplied to the gap between the two bodies in order to form the cushion of fluid. The gap between the two bodies is connected through channels in the housing to a vacuum source and a container for the coupling fluid.